Stepping back into the office after maternity leave felt like entering a whirlwind. The marketing landscape had shifted dramatically, and I found myself scrambling to catch up. Suddenly, I wasn’t just a marketing professional – I was a marketing mum, juggling client deadlines, evolving strategies and a baby who had zero respect for my carefully crafted schedule.

As I reconnected with colleagues – some of whom were also mothers – I realised we all shared a common narrative. The pressure to rebuild our confidence, stay ahead of industry trends and maintain our careers while navigating the complexities of motherhood was immense. There were moments when I felt overwhelmed, convinced I was falling behind on every front. But what made the difference? Connection.

When marketing mums come together, there’s an unspoken understanding that’s hard to find elsewhere. We’re all trying to balance it all – catching up on the latest marketing trends, rediscovering our professional selves and figuring out where we fit now that our lives have changed so dramatically. These connections not only build confidence but also provide crucial industry insights and often lead to new opportunities.

The challenges marketing mums face

One of the most pressing challenges many marketing mums face is the lack of flexibility in some work structures. While many progressive agencies, like the one I work for, offer great flexible working options, there are still organisations pushing for mandated office days, which can work against mothers who frequently bear the brunt of family responsibilities.

The pandemic proved that flexible working models can enhance productivity, yet some businesses are reverting to rigid in-office structures. This rigidity can often force a painful choice between career and family. To drive real change across the industry, more businesses need to rethink flexibility not as a perk but as a necessary component of a thriving, diverse workforce.

We need stronger networks and communities tailored to time-poor mums who crave support and connection. Initiatives like EMMA (Empowering Marketing Mums Australia) and Mums In Ads are doing great work in creating spaces where we can connect, share experiences and find encouragement and opportunities. However, we need more of these communities – especially ones that make it easy to participate with low time commitment. 

Culture, celebration and recognition

Becoming a mum has broadened my perspective both personally and professionally. As marketing mums, we bring a unique lens to the table – understanding a crucial consumer demographic, managing our time with laser focus and fostering a resilience that’s hard-earned. These are not skills to be downplayed but celebrated.

Companies need to create cultures that recognise and leverage these strengths. This could include mentorship programmes, investing in leadership pathways for mothers and fostering creativity and collaboration within flexible frameworks.

Looking back, I wish I had known sooner how vital these networks would be in my own journey back to work. Now, I’m committed to fostering that sense of connection for other marketing mums. From supporting initiatives like EMMA and Mums In Ads to advocating for more flexible work structures industry-wide, it’s time we push for the changes that allow marketing mums to truly excel. 

As the marketing industry continues to evolve, so too must its approach to supporting diverse talent. Recognising the unique value marketing mums bring is not just a nice-to-have but essential for building a dynamic, innovative workforce. It’s time to harness the power of marketing mums – united in our professional journeys and supported by a community that truly understands our value.

The women and greater team at marketing agency Pangea are excited to introduce EMMA, an empowering networking event for 20 marketing mums who are on maternity leave in Melbourne, whether currently employed or seeking new opportunities.

This exclusive event takes place on 22 October in South Yarra, and includes a two-hour forum on returning to work after maternity leave, rediscovering professional strengths, a crash course on recent industry trends, insights into how the modern marketing landscape has evolved, and some much-needed inspiration.

This will be followed by an indulgent lunch at The Beverly, where attendees can enjoy good company and start building a community that supports and encourages one another through this rewarding yet challenging stage of life.

To register or learn more, please email [email protected].

Prudence Warnock is the business director at Pangea. With more than 15 years of experience in marketing communications and management, particularly in healthcare, Warnock is recognised for her strategic acumen, strong work ethic, and motivational leadership that elevates team performance.

Also, read about marketing to mothers.